Not all protein is created equal. There’s one that isn’t much of a protein at all — hydrolyzed collagen. This “cheap” protein (from both a quality and cost standpoint) is often used in meal replacement bars as a “filler” ingredient to raise the protein content without actually upping the nutritional value.

Hydrolyzed collagen, also known as hydrolyzed gelatin or just plain gelatin, is a protein primarily found in the connective tissue of the body, including the skin, bones, cartilage, tendons and ligaments. It’s useful for repairing connective tissue and for joint health but does little to help repair or maintain muscle mass. Collagen lacks substantial quantities of the important amino acids that play a major role in the maintenance and repair of muscle tissue.

Bottom line: If hydrolyzed collagen or gelatin is at the top of a product’s ingredient list, skip it. Instead, choose products made mainly of whey and/or casein. Both are high-quality milk proteins that contain all the essential amino acids.

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